A new report has shown an increase in the number of nurses considering leaving the profession, with “existing tensions” being exacerbated by COVID-19 being the key drivers for the statistic.
The Royal College of Nurses’ report revealed that 36% of nurses were considering leaving the profession – a marked rise from the 27% published in a similar report last year.
Of those who stated that they were considering the profession, almost two-thirds (61%) blamed stagnant pay as a factor for their response.
Other responses cited were the treatment of nursing staff through COVID-19 (44%) and low staffing levels (43%).
The College’s chief executive, Dame Donna Kinnair, noted that “existing tensions have been exacerbated by the pandemic”, leading to the .
“Earlier sticking plasters are no longer covering gaping holes. Investment in staffing and pay is about both patient safety and the health of our workers”, she noted.
The survey also asked nurses what would make them feel more valued and more likely to remain in the profession. 73% of respondents noted higher pay, and 50% cited staffing. Other common responses were workplace safety (45%) and adequate equipment and resourcing (43%).
The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association is leading the charge for fair pay and safe staffing in NSW. To be part of the campaign, join the Association today.